Exciting Different Donuts Around the World
February 20, 2018

Ritte's East Latonia, Covington

The best things in life are simple and sweet, like the feeling of biting into a warm, delicious, freshly baked donut. Whether you prefer yours jelly-filled or dusted with powdered sugar, there’s no wrong way to eat them. They come in more shapes and flavors than you can imagine: All across the world, countries and cultures have their own ways of preparing these tasty confections. Here are three variations on the classic donut from different nations.

3 International Versions of the Donut

1. Israel’s Sufganiyah

During the celebration of Hanukkah, all the bakeries serve sufganiyah, a pastry traditionally made with yeast, filled with jam or custard and topped with powdered sugar.

Deep-fried foods are served around Hanukkah as a reminder of the miracle when the oil in the temple lamps, which were supposed to burn forever but had almost run dry, burned for eight days until more oil could be obtained. Sufganiyah is widely loved throughout Israel, but actually originated in central European countries like Romania, Hungary, and Austria.

2. North India’s Balushahi

This regional delicacy is made with buttermilk, which gives it a light, flaky texture. Balushahi is always dipped in sugary syrup and served hot. It can be found at many street-corner food stalls around India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. If you’re ever in that part of the world, follow your nose and look for golden, sweet-smelling pastries.

3. South America’s Buñuelos

Buñuelos are a tasty treat that can be easily found in Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, and other South American countries, though they likely originate with the Morisco people in Spain. The snack is often served around holidays like Christmas, and is made in various forms depending on the culture. In Colombia, for example, it’s made with cheese curds, while Nicaraguans often serve it with honey. Whatever the ingredients and the location, these fried dough balls never fail to satisfy appetites.

For classic American donuts in Florence, KY, visit Emerson’s Bakery for flavors you won’t forget. This bakery serves donuts, cakes, cookies, and other sweets, all baked fresh every morning to provide their community with the best-tasting confections around. To learn more, visit them online, call them at (859) 371-9228, or step in for a quick bite.